Learn how to make your elevated dog bed with PVC pipes and fabric in this easy DIY guide. You’ll save money and give your dog a comfortable spot to nap.
If you’re looking for a way to make your dog more comfortable and cozy, you might want to consider making an elevated dog bed with PVC pipes. This DIY project is easy, cheap, and requires no sewing skills.
Plus, it has many benefits for your pup, such as keeping them off the cold or hot floor, improving air circulation, and reducing pressure on their joints. But are elevated dog beds good for all dogs? Find out in this blog post!
Benefits of Elevated Dog Beds
Elevated dog beds are great for dogs of all sizes and ages, as they provide many benefits, such as:
- Temperature control: Elevated dog beds allow air to circulate under your dog, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
- Joint support: Elevated dog beds reduce pressure on your dog’s joints and spine, as they offer a firm and even surface that conforms to their body shape.
- Cleanliness: Elevated dog beds keep your dog away from dirt, dust, bugs, and allergens that might be on the floor. They are also easy to clean and maintain, as you can simply wipe them down or wash them.
But why make your elevated dog bed when you can buy one? Well, there are a few reasons why DIY is better:
- Cost: Making your elevated dog bed can save you a lot of money, as you only need a few materials that are cheap and easy to find. You can also customize the size and design of your bed to suit your dog’s needs and preferences.
- Fun: Making your elevated dog bed can be a fun and rewarding project that you can do with your family or friends. You can also involve your dog in the process by letting them choose the fabric or test the bed when it’s done.
- Satisfaction: Making your elevated dog bed can give you a sense of satisfaction and pride, as you can create something useful and beautiful for your furry friend. You can also donate your bed to a local shelter or rescue if you want to help other dogs in need.
So, how do you make your elevated dog bed with PVC pipes and fabric? It’s quite simple and doesn’t require any sewing skills. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Gather the materials
You will need the following materials for this project:
- 1-1/4 inch PVC pipe (about 11.5 feet)
- 1-1/4 inch 3-way PVC fittings (4)
- 1-1/4 inch PVC flat caps (4)
- 1/2 inch round washer head screws (32)
- Outdoor fabric (42 x 32 inches)
- Power drill
- PVC pipe cutting tool (cutter or saw)
- Tape measure
- Fabric glue (optional)
You can find most of these materials at your local hardware store or online. The outdoor fabric should be durable, breathable, and water-resistant. You can choose any color or pattern that you like, but make sure it matches the size of your bed frame.
Step 2: Cut the PVC pipe
You will need to cut the PVC pipe into eight pieces, as shown in the image below:
You will need four 4-inch pieces, two 23-1/2 inch pieces, and two 32-1/2 inch pieces. Measure these sections with your tape measure and mark them with a marker. Then use a PVC cutter or a saw to cut them.
Step 3: Assemble the bed frame
Use the 3-way fittings to connect the four longer pieces of pipe into a rectangular frame. The 3-way fittings should point down, as they will hold the legs of the bed. Don’t glue or screw anything yet, just make sure everything fits together.
Then insert the four 4-inch pieces into the 3-way fittings and attach the flat caps over the ends of those pieces. These will be the legs and feet of the bed. Flip the bed over to make sure it sits correctly and adjust if needed.
Step 4: Attach the fabric
Lay the fabric face down on a flat surface and place the bed frame on top of it. Center it so there is an even amount of excess fabric extending from each side. Make dog-ear folds on each corner of the fabric, as shown below. This will give your bed a finished look.
Next, make a half-inch fold along one edge of the fabric, using fabric glue to hold it in place if necessary. This will be where you drill to attach the fabric to the frame. Wrap the folded fabric over the PVC pipe and screw it into the pipe with four screws, spaced evenly. Repeat this for the other three sides of the fabric, making sure it is tight and smooth.
Step 5: Secure the frame
To make your bed more stable and sturdy, you can add some screws to the frame joints. Use four screws for each 3-way fitting, drilling them into the pipe from different angles. This will prevent the frame from wobbling or coming apart.
Step 6: Enjoy your bed!
You’re done! You’ve just made your elevated dog bed with PVC pipes and fabric. Now you can place it in your desired location, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, and let your dog enjoy it. You can also add a blanket or a pillow for extra comfort if you want.
